2021 NDHP Announces Eight LETA Graduates Sworn in Feb. 12th
Eight troopers graduated from the North Dakota Law Enforcement Training Academy on Friday, Feb. 12, 2021, following successful completion of a comprehensive law enforcement training program. The newly sworn North Dakota Highway Patrol troopers began the academy on Sept. 22 and completed the 21-week accelerated training program this week. The new troopers will begin field training with assigned NDHP troopers beginning Monday, Feb. 15, and be temporarily stationed at posts throughout the state. Governor Doug Burgum gave the graduation address and expressed gratitude to the new troopers and their families. He noted the courage and dedication needed of those
who serve in uniform and wished them well as they begin their service to the citizens of North Dakota. Retired Supreme Court Justice Dale Sandstrom administered the oath of office. A badge of authority, which is issued only to duly appointed and acting members of the highway patrol, was presented to each graduate. Lt. Daniel Haugen, Training Director of the NDHP Law Enforcement Academy, noted the importance of family within the highway patrol and gave each recruit the opportunity to have a family member pin the badge of authority on them. The graduates and their hometowns are Dan Anderson, Edina, MN; Kristina Anderson, Brainerd, MN; Henry
Gaskins, Houston, TX; Mitchell Mehrer, Dickinson, ND; James Myers, Larimore, ND; Andrew Skogen, Bismarck, ND; Stephen Horn, Catlett, VA; and Bennett Strege, Detroit Lakes, MN. NDHP Colonel Brandon Solberg also spoke at the ceremony noting the recruits hard work, dedication, flexibility in unprecedented times, and commitment to protecting the citizens of North Dakota. He stated, “Each of you through your daily efforts will have a direct impact on the safety of those we serve. With your help, we can make North Dakota the safest state in the nation.” The assigned duty locations of the new troopers will be announced following field training in April.